Michael Helgeson

Biography

 Helgeson’s nonprofit Apple Tree Dental provides low-cost treatment to underserved populations through its eight clinics and on-site treatment operations in both Minnesota and Northern California. The organization works with 130 government agencies, nonprofits and other groups to get dental equipment (and clinicians) to group homes for mentally challenged adults, nursing homes and more. Since 1985, Apple Tree has handled 1 million dental visits and provided $175 million worth of free or discounted care. A prominent advocate for mid-level providers (see page 72), Helgeson employs a number of dental therapists to treat patients, freeing its more advanced clinicians to handle the harder cases Apple Tree takes on.

Research Interest

 Dentistry